+Bishop Dee Pederson
The offices of the Southwestern Minnesota Synod have operated out of 175 E. Bridge Street in Redwood Falls since 1989 – the location that represented both the geographic center and a theological rooting for synod ministries.
During those past 37 years, work patterns, staffing levels, and online meeting opportunities have changed the shape of ministry, yet synod leadership is committed to faithfully stewarding our valuable assets.
We are thrilled to announce that effective September 1, 2025, Anfinson Thompson & Co. will move from its current location in Redwood Falls and begin leasing a portion of the synod office building. Anfinson Thompson is a trusted business partner. CEO David Anfinson served as an officer and teacher for the synod for many years. Welcoming the offices of Anfinson Thompson will provide the synod with sustainable income through a lease agreement. We also hope this action can model wise use of our facility for congregations who find themselves with space that could serve their wider community and area.
Synod office operations will move to the west side of the building. Staff offices will be located in the north end of the building, with the large room on the south (current Resource Center) available for collaboration, in-person gatherings, and larger-group meetings. Renovations will provide appropriate office space for synod staff, secure records storage, and update restrooms to current code.
We are grateful for the way this opportunity allows us to be even better stewards of our building and of our resources. We remain dedicated to this synod ministry rooted in Redwood Falls at the center of the cities, farms, and towns where God planted us. Going forward, our office will point toward the Redwood River, the ever-present reminder of the waters of baptism and of our ministry flowing out into the world.
While this transition takes place in the building and renovations are made, synod staff will set up temporary workspace on the west side of the building.
On Wednesday, August 20, at 3 p.m., we will hold a liturgy of thanksgiving for all the ministry that has taken place through this office. All are invited to come and join in as we walk through the space, share memories, give thanks for those who served in these spaces, and offer prayers of thanks to God for the privilege of serving in synod ministry together. Please come and join us!